New Dawnz: Artisan soap hobby grows into small business
New Dawnz may be a fairly new business, but its genesis as a purveyor of handcrafted artisan soaps goes back a ways.
“I’ve been making body butter for years,” said owner Shericka Ashley of Waxahachie, noting that she came up with her own version to better treat her three sons’ eczema when they were children because store-bought products simply didn’t work. “I needed a product for my kids.”
That initial product has since led to an artisanal line of bath and body products that especially cater to those with sensitive skin.
“A lot of people are finding out they can use my products,” she said.
Ashley launched New Dawnz about two years ago and joined the Waxahachie Farmers Market this spring.
Her offerings include soaps made with oat or coconut milk, with several having fragrance oils incorporated. Besides the original body butter, Ashley also makes sugar scrubs and body lotions. In addition, she sells room sprays and wood wick, hand-poured candles. Besides custom work on product formulation on request, she also offers smaller soaps that can be used as party favors at showers and weddings.
“They’re all natural,” Ashley said of her product line. “They clean you without getting you dry.”
She’s found that making soap is “therapeutic” and something she enjoys doing once she gets off from work as a project manager.
“It started out as a hobby, and now I’m making money (with it),” said Ashley, who’s still working her full-time job. “I’m able to make money and do what I love to do. I end the day with one job and start the next.”
She encourages would-be entrepreneurs to take a chance and bring their own dreams to life.
“Don’t be afraid to do it,” she said. “Start small and set your budget. If you put in the effort, it will happen. It’s all about hard work and dedication.”
Ashley plans on having a year-round presence at the Waxahachie Farmers Market.
“I’m here every Saturday, and I’ll be doing the winter season,” she said, noting that her products are also available at The Local Exchange, a co-op of 20 vendors in downtown Lancaster. “I cater to my customers and listen to their feedback and suggestions.”
For more information, visit newdawnz.com or email info@shopnewdawnz.com.
Written by Jo Ann Livingston/In The Know Ellis.
